Depression: Overcoming it the simple way.

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” ~Victor Frankl

Have you ever had that overly encompassing feeling that things are getting nowhere? That your life is at a dead end? I wish I could’ve gotten that sinking feeling out of my gut for that last couple of months. Trust me; it doesn’t have to feel that way and you’re not alone.

I’m not a shrink any sort of way, but I’ve definitely been where you are right now. It’s not pleasant. It’s downright de-motivational. Things seem like they’re in a whirlwind and life is passing you by. In fact, it all feels so overwhelming that you feel like there’s no way out.

I found out the hard way how to solve my issues. I had to hit rock bottom, accept the status quo, and then slowly I began to reemerge. I have to crawl before I run. Baby steps, but I’ll get there.

I found that breaking down the process to recovery has been helping. Here’s my fool-proof method. (SO FAR!!)

Depression: Overcoming it the simple way.

Step 1: Identify the problem. What is the cause of your depression?

Step 2: Brainstorm the solutions at hand. Can’t do this because you’re negative? Call a friend. Talk to a family member. Having a sounding board is a great thing to have.

Step 3: Choose a solution and stick to it. Choose the one that seems the most attainable. If that, too, fails, have a backup plan. Do NOT get discouraged.

Step 4: Build a timeline for your goal. What do you have to do to salvage the situation? Bullet-list them and then attach deadlines to each.

Step 5: Stay positive. Stay busy.

True, sometimes problems have a way of working themselves out, but if you’re unhappy, the worst thing you can do is leave it up to the universe. You have to put in the effort to see the change.

I know this entry of mine is a little different from my typical upbeat style, but I felt like the topic at hand needed to be taken in a serious manner. Depression is not something that should be cast aside lightly. Many of us have faced it at least once in our lives, and some of us have lost the battle. I’d like for those of you that are facing tough times right now know that you’re not alone. There’s always someone there willing to listen to you. If you don’t have any friends or any family that you can open up to, contact me. I will be your pen pal. Don’t let yourself become just another voice in the wind. YOU can do this. YOU can get through this. You’re always much stronger than you seem.

One last thought before I wrap this up; if you are suicidal or know someone that is, please get them help. Take them to see a professional.